Brad Biggs, of the Chicago Sun-Times, reports former Chicago Bears PK Doug Brien is still unable to play football and the Bears have denied him an injury settlement, a matter he is pursuing in a grievance through the league. Brien was called by the Dallas Cowboys a few weeks back, but told them he couldn't because tryout because his back still is bothering him to the point that he can't kick without pain. Brien said he injured his back while running sprints after practice Sept. 29, the final practice before the players were given a three-day weekend during the Bears' bye week. The team didn't learn about the injury until after Brien was in California. Brien says the Bears now claim as a reason for not settling with him that he didn't properly disclose his injury. Brien was playing on a one-year, $765,000 contract. In the balance is about $540,000. General manager Jerry Angelo called it a business decision when asked about the matter Sunday, Nov. 27, in Tampa, Fla., but he wouldn't comment other than to acknowledge Brien is pursuing the grievance.

Chicago Bears PK Doug Brien (back) missed the Week 5 game with a back injury and was replaced by rookie PK Robbie Gould. Brien, who has been hampered by back problems in the past, received a cortisone shot Oct. 3 but it did not improve his condition. It is uncertain when Brien will be able to return to the field.

Larry Mayer, of ChicagoBears.com, reports the Chicago Bears have signed free agent PK Robbie Gould (Ravens). Both Gould and PK Doug Brien (back) traveled with the team to Cleveland and the team could wait until just before kickoff to decide on which one to activate.

Chicago Bears PK Doug Brien (back) did not practice Friday, Oct. 7, and has been downgraded from probable to questionable for the Week 5 game against the Cleveland Browns Sunday, Oct. 9. Brien will not practice Saturday, Oct. 8, and could be a game-time decision.

Chicago Bears practice squad PK Tyler Jones had a rough go of it Wednesday, Oct. 5. He was perfect with his kicks Thursday, Oct. 6 and will be elevated to the active roster on the weekend if PK Doug Brien's condition does not improve.